Vatican City: At the end of the Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis called for a Christmas ceasefire across all conflict zones and reiterated his message of peace, hope, and reconciliation, focusing on regions like Mozambique, war-torn Ukraine, and the Holy Land. He expressed deep concern for those suffering from the ravages of war and violence, especially as Christmas approached.

The Pope highlighted the dire situation in Mozambique, where poverty and violence continue to plague the country, praying that dialogue and the pursuit of the common good, grounded in faith and goodwill, may overcome division and distrust. He also condemned the cruelty inflicted upon innocent children in conflict areas.

Pope Francis spoke specifically about Ukraine, still reeling from relentless attacks that have damaged schools, hospitals, and churches. "May the weapons fall silent and Christmas carols ring out," he said, urging prayers for a ceasefire in Ukraine, the Holy Land, the Middle East, and across the globe. His thoughts also went to Gaza, where he decried the cruelty of the violence, including the killing of children and the bombing of schools and hospitals.

From the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, where he led the Angelus due to a cold, the Pope shared the joy of spending time with children, their mothers, and those attending the Santa Marta Dispensary, a charitable service run by the Vincentian Sisters within the Vatican. He honored Sister Antonietta Collacchi, who has been a beloved figure at the Dispensary, describing her as the "grandmother" of everyone there, and spoke of the joy in his heart as he reflected on the gift of every child, a gift from God.

In his final remarks, the Pope blessed the 'Bambinelli'—figurines of the Christ Child brought by families to Saint Peter’s Square to be placed in nativity scenes at home. He called it a "simple but important gesture" and ended by encouraging everyone to remember their grandparents and to ensure that no one feels alone during the holiday season.